Illinois – A dim, steel-gray sky hugs the Chicago shoreline this Saturday morning as a cool east wind slides across wet pavement and low clouds drift over Lake Michigan. Early Thanksgiving travel is already building on I-90, I-94, and Lake Shore Drive, and conditions could shift as moisture deepens later today. Drivers should prepare for slower traffic and occasional sun glare popping through breaks in the cloud deck.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago office, temperatures rise into the mid-40s today under persistent cloud cover. Winds remain light but gradually turn southeast late in the day as the region begins drawing in Gulf moisture. Travelers should monitor timing closely, fuel up before longer drives, and expect variable visibility near the lakefront as cloud bases fluctuate.
According to meteorologists, a slight chance of rain develops Friday afternoon as a weak disturbance interacts with the moistening air. Coverage stays limited, but any drizzle or light showers could reduce speeds on major approaches, especially near the I-55/I-94 corridor. While models show no snow threat for Chicago, a broader “Winter Tease” forms to the north where colder air sharpens across Wisconsin and Minnesota. That trend hints at a more noticeable cool-down early next week for northern Illinois.
According to transportation officials, Saturday and Sunday offer strong travel windows, with Saturday remaining cloudier and Sunday turning brighter with highs near the low 50s. These breaks provide opportunities for leaf cleanup, errands, or early holiday trips before crowds thicken Monday and Tuesday. Light breezes Sunday create pleasant walking conditions for lakeside plans.
After all, Chicago sits firmly in its November transition—cool winds, shifting skies, and subtle signs of deeper winter waiting beyond the holiday week. Residents should stay flexible and keep close tabs on road conditions as Thanksgiving approaches.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, IL:
Sat: 44/42 – Cloudy; cool east breeze.
Sun: 52/42 – Partly sunny; good travel.
Mon: 53/41 – Mostly sunny; mild.
Tue: 50/40 – Partly cloudy; slight cool-down.
Wed: 50/39 – Dry and calm; favorable travel.
